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GPs set to deliver free vaccines

Vaccine_shot

Aged first for free vaccine

THOUSANDS OF general practitioners (GPs) across the country are set to help roll out millions of doses of Covid-19 vaccines.
The vaccine will be free to all medicare-eligible Australians, as well as to all visa-holders and starting from March 22, between 50 and 400 doses a week will be delivered to about 1,000 eligible general practices who put up their hands to participate.
The national rollout is then set to scale up rapidly and by the end of April, all the GP clinics taking part should have received their initial doses of the vaccine.
Double the expected number of GP clinics are participating in the vaccine rollout which is one of the nation’s greatest logistical challenges, and Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt says the staggered approach will ensure “an efficient and equitable distribution of vaccines” across the country.
“Phase 1b of the rollout includes vulnerable populations, such as older people and people with certain underlying conditions,” Mr Hunt said.
Australian Medical Association (AMA) president, Dr Omar Khorshid, says general practitioners (GPs) have a proven track record with flu vaccination of older Australians and those living with chronic disease who will make up the bulk of this part of the rollout.
President of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RACGP), Dr Karen Price, says GPs already have the trust of patients and communities, and they can “ensure that those who are ready to be vaccinated can be, and those who are unsure can have their questions answered to help them decide”.
To find out when to expect to be able to book an appointment to receive your first free vaccine dose, call 1800 020 080 or check your eligibility at covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility.